(NaturalNews) The male species has it tough these days. Our collective hormone balance is constantly being assaulted by things like toxic outgassing from plastics, chemical contamination of food, estrogenic compounds in soy and other food additives, lack of proper nutrition, and a host of other negative factors, all of which have contributed to an epidemic of low testosterone. But if you are a man trying to preserve your masculinity in this hostile modern environment, adding pumpkin seeds to your diet is a great way to help raise your testosterone levels naturally.

Rich in vitamins E, C, D, K, and B, pumpkin seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition capable of supplying men with high doses of the substances they need to maintain optimal health. Pumpkin seeds are also loaded with calcium, potassium, copper, niacin, phosphorus, manganese, iron, and zinc, the latter of which is absolutely vital for healthy sperm production. Zinc is also crucial for healthy prostate maintenance, a lack of which can lead to an enlarged prostate and impotence.

Specifically, the zinc content in pumpkin seeds helps prevent the body from converting too much testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by aiding in the production of more testosterone. Though DHT is necessary at appropriate levels for good health, a lack of regular testosterone, which is often preempted by a lack of proper zinc intake, can lead to too much DHT being produced. The result is premature balding and an enlarged prostate, which can potentially lead to prostate cancer later in life.

Beyond this, pumpkin seeds are rich in both omega-3 fatty acids and tryptophan. The former is a precursor to prostaglandins, a hormone-like substance that plays a key role not only in sexual health but also in sexual desire. And tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a brain chemical that regulates mood and promotes feelings of calm and relaxation, both of which are necessary for maintaining a healthy sex drive.

“They’re rich in zinc, magnesium, and healthy fat, making them one of the best foods to naturally boost testosterone,” explains Matt Moore on his blog The Art of Manliness. “Preparing, roasting, and eating them is also a simple and fun activity enjoyed by couples and families alike,” he adds.

As far as their many other health benefits, pumpkin seeds have been shown scientifically to help improve bladder function, prevent the formation of kidney stones, protect cardiovascular health, guard against liver disease, detoxify the body and blood, relieve arthritis, target harmful parasites in the gut, relieve anxiety, and promote restful sleep.

The Life Extension Foundation (LEF) published a thoroughly informative piece on pumpkin seeds back in 2012 where you can learn more about this incredible “superfood:” http://www.lef.org

“With a remarkable assortment of health-enhancing nutrients, from magnesium, protein, niacin, and zinc, to its high concentration of tryptophan and essential fatty acids, pumpkin seeds provide a powerful health punch that offers protection against common health problems including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis,” writes William Gamonski for LEF. “It also provides powerful relief for people suffering from bladder dysfunction, anxiety, and arthritis.”